Shoreland Alterations: Vegetation

Advantages of Preservation

Advantages of preserving natural vegetation include:

  • Maintaining habitat for fish and wildlife
  • Preserving the aesthetic value of the shoreline
  • Protecting water quality
  • Reducing erosion and runoff
  • Providing privacy

Before Altering Vegetation

Before you alter (plant, remove, and/or replace) vegetation within shoreland areas, please contact the Le Sueur County Environmental Services at 507-357-8538.  

MN State Statute 6120.3300 Zoning Provisions, Subp. 4 and Le Sueur County Ordinance Section 13, Subdivision 5, Part B, state the removal or alteration of vegetation is subject to the following standards:

  • Intensive vegetation clearing is not allowed within the shore and bluff impact zones.
  • In bluff and shore impact zones and on steep slopes, limited clearing of trees and shrubs and cutting and trimming of trees is allowed to provide a view to the water from the principal dwelling site and to accommodate the placement of stairways. paths, landings, and water orientated structures.

Please complete the Land Alteration Plan located below and submit to the Environmental Services Department.  Before you can do any vegetation alterations, your land alteration plan must be approved.

2023 Shoreland Land Alteration Permit (pdf)

2023 Shoreland Land Alteration Permit (pdf fillable form)

2023 Shoreland Land Alteration Permit As-Built (pdf)

2023 Shoreland Land Alteration Permit As-Built (pdf fillable form)

Additional Resources